Water is Underrated

Opinions vary when it comes to the body’s ideal water intake. While exact numbers may differ depending on the individual, what is clear to all health authorities and fitness professionals is that proper hydration cannot be overstated. After all, the average adult body is 50-65% water. How can you expect your body to perform to its highest potential if it’s running low?

Remaining properly hydrated each day provides so many benefits. Water regulates your body temperature, keeps joints lubricated and properly functioning, boosts energy levels and supports the transfer of nutrients within the body. In addition to helping your body function at its best each day, studies have shown that drinking more water may also help you meet your weight-loss goals.
While health authorities recommend eight 8-ounce glasses of water each day (about two liters), there are no exact rules for how much water is best for you. It’s best to pay attention to how you feel, and trust your body to know what it needs. Having water available for sipping throughout the day is a good way to stay on top of hydration, and make sure you don’t find yourself suffering from symptoms of dehydration before you even realize you’re thirsty.

The amount you drink should increase once you add exercise into the mix. Take into account how much you sweat, the heat and humidity of your environment, and how hard your body is working. If dehydration hits, you may find yourself suffering from fatigue, headache, dizziness, or muscle cramping, none of which are conducive to an effective workout!

If hoping to lose weight, don’t underestimate the power of a little extra H2­O. Many studies have shown that drinking more water may give your metabolism a boost, in addition to providing extra energy during workouts and helping to reduce your appetite. Drinking water before mealtime may limit the amount of calories that you consume, while remaining properly hydrated before and during exercise will help you get the most out of each workout.